“Frame of Mind” explores the material qualities of wood through a composition of linear and planer elements confined to a 16x16x16 volume. The ancient Japanese “Sampo-gumi-shikuchi” joint was used to construct a frame that would suspend interconnected wood boards, varying in size, to frame different views from all six sides. The joint was selected because its complexity contrasts it’s modest and unassuming appearance. The joint hides the intersection between the three linear elements allowing the focus of attention to be the view that is framed. The boards are configured in two separate masses that are cantilevered from opposite corners of the frame. The two masses converge on the center, suspended just beyond the other’s reach, creating the illusion that the entire configuration is interconnected. The result is a sculptural piece that provides the viewer a different experience from all sides of the cube. 

After collaboratively designed the concept, Rafael took the responsibility of developing the final composition through 3D modeling software to test its viability and laying out the pieces in the order by which they are assembled. Once this process was complete, the Rafael and Nguyen produced multiple iterations of the project until the complex joint had been perfected.